Top Dog Film Festival Returns in 2025 with heartwarming stories of canine courage, companionship and adventure.

The beloved Top Dog Film Festival is back for another heartwarming season this August, with a brand-new line-up of short films that celebrate the extraordinary connection between dogs and humans. Touring across Australia, the 2025 festival features tales of adventure, resilience, and canine joy — reminding us why dogs truly are our best friends.

This year’s curated collection brings together incredible real-life stories from around the world — from bloodhounds tracking poachers in Africa to ultra-running Vizslas in the Pacific Northwest, pampered hotel pups, and unlikely sporting heroes. Whether it’s laughter, tears, or feel good moments you’re after, the 2025 Top Dog Film Festival delivers it all, one wagging tail at a time.

New for 2025: An In-House Production

A special highlight of this year’s festival is Canine Concierge, a delightful short film produced by the Top Dog Film Festival team. Shot on location across three continents, the film showcases the charming lives of hotel dogs — from Canada’s snow-loving Archie, to London’s dapper Dash, and Tasmania’s guest-comforting Labrador, also named Archie.

"We’re so excited to present a film of our own creation this year," says Jemima Robinson, Festival Founder and Director. “Canine Concierge captures the spirit of everything the Top Dog Film Festival stands for — joy, connection, and the incredible way dogs bring comfort and character into every space they inhabit. It’s a love letter to the dogs who welcome us, calm us, and remind us we’re never truly alone.”

The Top Dog Film Festival is more than a film event — it’s a celebration of the unconditional love, loyalty, and laughter dogs bring into our lives. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner, an animal lover, or simply appreciate uplifting storytelling, this unique cinematic event promises an unforgettable experience.

More Inclusive Than Ever

In a move to make the festival more accessible and welcoming to a broader audience, all films in the 2025 Top Dog Film Festival will include on-screen subtitles. This initiative supports not only those who are deaf or hard of hearing, but also people for whom English is a second language, neurodivergent viewers, and anyone who benefits from additional visual context while watching films. It’s part of the festival’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity — ensuring that more people, from more walks of life, can experience the joy and connection these stories offer.

Touring Australia – August 2025

The festival will tour cinemas nationwide, including major cities and regional towns. Grab your fellow dog lovers, tissues, and popcorn — this year’s festival is packed with heart and fur.

More info

Event Info

Date and time

Saturday 30 August 2025
2pm - 5pm

Location

Araluen Arts Centre

61 Larapinta Dr, Araluen NT 0870

Get directions